Gauntlet Gallery — Complete Damien Hirst Print Index
H17-4 Civilisation Exploding (Timed Edition)
Summary
H17-4 Civilisation Exploding (2024) closes Hirst's four-part Civilisation series, a Giclée on Cotton Smooth Rag hand-signed and numbered on the front. Framed, it measures roughly 143 x 112 cm. Issued by HENI as a timed edition, its title delivers the sequence's dramatic climax.
Why It Matters
As the final movement, Civilisation Exploding resolves the four-part arc in explosive terms and completes the narrative for collectors reading the suite together. Its timed-edition structure means the closing run reflects demand within the sale window, matching the rest of the H17 group.
Collector Perspective
Consistent with its companions, it is printed on archival Cotton Smooth Rag and signed on the front. Timed editions have no fixed cap, so confirm the final run with HENI. As the concluding H17-4, it is often the last piece completists need, which can concentrate demand from those assembling the full set.
Historical Context
Rupture and destruction recur across Hirst's practice as counterparts to beauty and order. Exploding brings the Civilisation narrative to its breaking point, released through HENI's 2024 timed-edition program of fine-art Giclées and capping a rare four-stage conceptual sequence in his editioned work.
FAQ
Is Exploding the final print?
Yes. It is H17-4, the fourth and last work in the Civilisation series.
What is the medium?
A Giclée on Cotton Smooth Rag archival paper, hand-signed and numbered on the front.
What are the dimensions?
Approximately 143 x 112 cm framed.
Does completing the set matter?
The four prints form a single narrative arc; as the closing work, Exploding is frequently sought to complete the sequence.
About the Artist
Damien Hirst (born 1965, Bristol) is a British artist and the most prominent figure of the Young British Artists (YBAs). Rising to fame in the late 1980s and 1990s, he built a practice around mortality, science, religion, and beauty — from formaldehyde-preserved animals to his Spot, Spin, and Butterfly (Kaleidoscope) series. Hirst is also one of the most prolific printmakers in contemporary art, releasing extensive signed editions through his own science-led studio and, more recently, the HENI imprint. His work has commanded record prices and defined the market for blue-chip contemporary editions.
Collecting Damien Hirst at Gauntlet Gallery
Which Damien Hirst prints should I collect?
Signed, numbered editions from his signature series — Spots, Butterflies/Kaleidoscope, Spins, Cherry Blossoms, and skull works — are the collectible core. Look for strong condition and the artist's pencil signature. Gauntlet Gallery prioritizes complete, well-documented impressions.
How is a Hirst print authenticated?
We sell Hirst works with documented provenance and the edition's signature and numbering; many carry HENI or studio documentation. Each piece is photographed exactly as it ships, including signature and edition details.
What drives value?
Series and image (iconic Spots and Butterflies lead), edition size, format and scale, condition, and provenance all drive value. Hand-signed, low-numbered, and diamond-dust or foilblock works command premiums.